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GALAPAGOS ISLANDS / ECUADOR / PERU

Adventures Afloat: The Best of the Galápagos and Peru: From Enchanted Islands to Machu Picchu

Few other places inspire such wonder and awe as the Galápagos Islands and the Incan Lost City of Machu Picchu. Experience both of these destinations, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage site of Quito in an intimate group setting that allows for optimal time to learn from Road Scholar's acclaimed experts.

Highlights

• Discuss the spiritual significance of Machu Picchu and spend the evening in Aguas Caliente for a longer, more relaxed visit to the site.
• Learn about the biology of giant tortoises and local conservation efforts.
• Swim and snorkel off sandy beaches in search of sea turtles, sea lions, rays and a variety of colorful fish.

Program Notes

Due to the remote nature of the islands, listening devices are not available for the Galapagos Islands portion of the program.
Celebrate 40 years of learning, adventure and friendship with Road Scholar in 2015! You’re invited to join us on this voyage that includes special activities and events to commemorate Road Scholar’s 40th Anniversary. The departure date of 3/29/2015 will be on the Galaven boat utilizing a slightly different itinerary. The March 6th and March 20th dates are Road Scholar 40th Anniversary programs.

Activity Notes

Quito, Ecuador has an elevation between 9,350 ft and 9,500 ft. Some participants find it helpful to fly into the city a day early in order to have extra time to rest and acclimate to the altitude. It also gives participants an extra day to catch-up to the program if there are unexpected travel delays—especially during busy travel seasons and times of year when bad weather is expected.

Wet and dry landings involve transferring in potentially rough waters from the yacht into a zodiac and stepping into either knee-deep water or onto rocky shores. Daily walks on sharp volcanic rocks and loose stones add another level of difficulty. Please view the Galápagos video "Galapagos Fitness Information - What to Expect" in preparation for your program activities: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U93d0TxTOQA&feature=youtu.be

Need Help?

The latest in light, portable, easy-to-use QUIETVOX listening devices are available on Road Scholar programs.* Whether you are outdoors, in a crowd or in a museum environment where speaking loudly is discouraged, a listening device makes it feel like our experts are speaking clearly and directly to you. Hear for yourself on a Road Scholar adventure!

*Please note that due to the nature of some programs, the remote location or government regulations, listening devices may not be available. If you’d like to know for sure if your program will offer listening devices, just call and ask an Advisor!